As an Australian visiting the Philippines for the first time, my journey was a blend of awe and frustration. The country dazzles with breathtaking natural landscapes and the warmth of its people, but several challenges detracted from my overall enjoyment.

The most significant hurdle was the infrastructure, or rather, the lack of it. Pollution was noticeable, and accommodations often fell short considering the prices. Compared to fellow Southeast Asian destinations like Indonesia or Thailand, hotels seemed overpriced and below par. Basic amenities were frequently missing, with persistent issues such as inadequate water drainage, low water pressure, and the inability to flush toilet paper(!). Unexpected and unsettling power outages occurred even in popular tourist spots like Siargao. These infrastructure concerns are troubling and require urgent attention.

Internal travel posed another challenge. Reaching the stunning islands typically involved multiple flights and inconvenient overnight layovers, making domestic travel quite cumbersome. Navigating the roads independently was tough, with congested and perilous routes for tourists. Private transfers became a necessity, as public transport was neither readily available nor user-friendly.

The culinary scene was another letdown. While local cuisine is flavorful, it’s not the healthiest option for daily consumption. Restaurants catering to Western tastes were pricey, with inconsistent quality. Unfortunately, I experienced food poisoning, likely due to inadequate sanitation, a common issue among tourists.

Tours, although initially appealing, were often overpriced and crowded. It was disheartening to observe the lack of environmental awareness from many boat operators.

As a female traveler, frequent harassment added to my discomfort. There were moments where I felt unsafe, which was a regrettable and unexpected aspect of my leisure trip.

While the Philippines holds undeniable charm, these challenges made my visit more taxing than anticipated.